Designers in Residence 2026

About the Open Call

Designers in Residence is an international scholarship program inviting design graduates in areas such as jewellery, fashion, accessory, industrial, and communication design, as well as other design disciplines. Interdisciplinary project proposals are welcome. Three scholarships will be awarded for a residency in Pforzheim, Germany, from April 1 to June 30, 2026. The program aims to encourage participants to reflect on the challenges of future society from a design perspective, develop or research new materials and technologies, or explore craft techniques. Pforzheim, located in the Black Forest, has a rich tradition of jewelry making and hosts Pforzheim University with its renowned Faculty of Design, and the EMMA Creative Center, providing a vibrant environment and extensive workshop facilities (including arrangements for electro plating, ceramics, silver smithing, industrial design, and woodworking through Pforzheim University).

What is Offered

Three scholarships for a design residency program, including a scholarship salary, access to workshops at EMMA Creative Center and Pforzheim University (by arrangement), and assistance with visa invitation letters.

Requirements

The opportunity is open to designers in areas such as jewellery, fashion, accessory, industrial, and communication design, with interdisciplinary project proposals encouraged. Applicants must have graduated from their last degree program no more than 2 years ago OR be no older than 35 years at the time of application. Only one application per person is allowed, though in exceptional cases, teams of up to two people may apply (sharing the scholarship salary). Required application documents include a portfolio (max 10 pages, 50 MB), a curriculum vitae (50 MB), proof of final degree (50 MB), and a project sketch (50 MB).

How to Apply

Before applying, please read carefully the terms and conditions. The application process requires providing personal data and uploading required documents as PDF files, not exceeding 50 MB each. Only one application per person is possible. Applicants cannot save their data during the process and should save information separately. Required documents include a Portfolio (max 10 pages), Curriculum Vitae (including details of previous grants, awards, prizes, references, certificates), Proof of final degree (or an official university confirmation of upcoming graduation), and a Project Sketch (mind map, visualization, mood board). Successful transmission of the application will be confirmed via e-mail. For questions, contact designers@emma-pf.de.